LPN or RN?

snuglbugls · Jan 22, 2005

I am not a nurse yet but want to become one. I need some advice. My ultimate goal would to be working in labor and delivery, possible long term down the line maybe a midwife. I know I would need to be a RN, but I am not sure if it is better to go to school fot approx 16 months become an LPN, start working, getting experience, and then go back to school for an RN. Or should I wait the 4 years to get a RN. I live in Georgia if that helps at all? Please anyone insight would be helpful. Thanks.

I pretty much have the same questions as you. I'm pretty confused about all these titles, LPN, RN, CNA, etc. Where do I start? What is the real difference between all these titles? Can anyone help?

LPN01112005 · Jan 22, 2005

New LPN here, happy although a little frustrated with what appears to be a confined job market for LPN's in GA, meaning most jobs appear to be in the nursing home or doctor's office. Hospitals do hire us, but getting our foot in the door without a years experience is posing somewhat of a problem. I haven't given up on finding a hospital job, but it hasn't been as easy as I thought it would be.

I don't want to discourage your from going the LPN route, because you can always bridge over to an ASN or BSN and clep some of the clinicals, so it wouldn't be like starting from scratch; however, you may want to consider an ASN program at a community college instead. You'll be an RN and the reality is there are many more opportunities for RN's in the state of GA.

NurseinOR · Jan 22, 2005

New LPN here, happy although a little frustrated with what appears to be a confined job market for LPN's in GA, meaning most jobs appear to be in the nursing home or doctor's office. Hospitals do hire us, but getting our foot in the door without a years experience is posing somewhat of a problem. I haven't given up on finding a hospital job, but it hasn't been as easy as I thought it would be.
I don't want to discourage your from going the LPN route, because you can always bridge over to an ASN or BSN and clep some of the clinicals, so it wouldn't be like starting from scratch; however, you may want to consider an ASN program at a community college instead. You'll be an RN and the reality is there are many more opportunities for RN's in the state of GA.

Hi! Well I advise going for your RN... I'm not sure why it would take you 4 years though. I did mine in 3 years- full time, my first year was prereq's (I live in NY). In NY you can go to school for your RN and then after your first year test out as an LPN, and also continue for your RN. I would look into your local nursing program and see if they offer this option. You could also work part time, if you have the time, as a CRN (certified registered nurse). I did this my last year in the ER... they're more likely to hire you if they know you're in school. Also look into what your hospitals will pay for, as far as tuition buy back and continuing education. My hospital is paying off my 15,000 in student loans and is now paying for my bachelors... I signed a 2 year contract for the tuition buy back, but my bachelors is just a benefit. Nothing wrong with being an LPN, but alot of hospitals here in NY are starting to hire more RN's vs LPN's... also you mentioned wanting to work in L&D... need to check and see if you can as an LPN at your hospital - here you have to be an RN (at the hospital I work at), same for the OR (where I work) - we only hire RN's.

Sorry to ramble on...

Jamie

*PICURN* · Jan 22, 2005

I would definately advise you to get your RN

(you would probably end up getting it anyway in the end)

Why not try a community college ADN program? I did that and it took me 3 years (this includes all pre-req's). You can work as a CNA after your first semester in nursing school (at least in my state). This would be excellent experience if you can afford to do it.